Detroit Lions quarterback Jared Goff said he has “lost his best friend” after confirming he has had his beloved dog Quincy put down in an emotional statement.
The Lions star revealed he had made the painful decision to put his beloved dog to sleep after Quincy had been on life support for four days.
The Golden Retriever had routinely accompanied Goff to training camps, charity events, and even game days, becoming a familiar presence for fans and teammates alike. Over 1.4 million people followed an Instagram account dedicated to Quincy, which featured a playful biography: “I love to travel, play ball and get attention from everyone I meet.”
Quincy was taken into the hospital last week after contracting pneumonia. The dog’s condition had worsened, with Goff revealing Quincy’s heart had stopped when he was sedated last week. His heart was restarted, with Goff appealing to fans to keep Quincy in their thoughts when he announced the dog was in a coma.
Goff has now shared an emotional statement on social media confirming Quincy’s death at the age of 12, along with photos of the two together.
“After four days on life support, fighting with every bit of strength he had, I had to make the hardest decision of my life and say goodbye to Quincy,” Goff wrote.
“He never stopped fighting, right until the very end. I feel so grateful and honored to have shared my life with such a beautiful soul, an angel and true friend. Bringing Quincy into my life was the best decision I ever made, and I will forever cherish the memories we created together.”
He added: “Although I lost Quincy, I have never been faced with putting a dog to sleep before, though I know my mom and many close friends have. It is one of the most painful experiences, and I feel a deep connection to everyone who has gone through the loss of a beloved pet. Although it was so hard, having him was one of the most beautiful parts of life, to love so deeply and to be loved in return.”
“Thank you all for the love and support you’ve shown Quincy over the years. It has been so special to witness and feel. He died on Sunday evening, September 28th, in my arms.”
On X, the Lions quarterback added: “Lost my best friend last night. Thank you all for the love you’ve shown him over the years. Quincy forever.”
Tributes quickly poured in. The official NFL account posted condolences: “Rest in Peace Quincy Goff, a true star in his own right. Jared Goff’s beloved Quincy brought smiles to sidelines and warmed the hearts of fans all over the world. Our thoughts are with Jared during this difficult time. Rest easy Quincy, thank you for the pawprints you left on all of our hearts.”
The Detroit Lions’ official page also shared: “Forever part of the Lions family, rest easy, Quincy,” alongside images of the Golden Retriever with Goff.
Quincy, at 12, had exceeded the average life expectancy of a Golden Retriever, which is typically between eight to ten years. Goff had even missed some off-field team obligations last week to be with Quincy in hospital.
For Goff, who has been leading the Lions through one of their most promising seasons in years, the loss of Quincy comes during an emotionally testing time. But to fans, it’s clear: beyond the touchdowns and victories, Goff is, above all, a man who loved his dog deeply — and lost a best friend.